Understanding Your Stroke Risk

Stroke is not just a problem reserved for senior citizens. In fact, the risk factors for stroke are the same, regardless of your age. Knowledge is your best defense against stroke. Understand your stroke risk, know the signs and symptoms and, if you think you’re having a stroke, act fast.

Stroke Stats

Each year, about 750,000 Americans, including many young adults, have a stroke.

Stroke accounts for 1 in every 3 deaths in the U.S.

At younger ages, men have a higher stroke risk than women.

African Americans have a higher stroke risk than Caucasians.

Among people ages 45 to 64, 37 percent of hemorrhagic strokes result in death.

The risk of stroke in current smokers is about double that of non-smokers.

The risk of stroke for pregnant women – and women within 6 weeks after delivery – is 2.4 times greater than for non-pregnant women.

People who are under 65 and suffer signs of depression are 4.21 times more likely to have a stroke.

Risk Factors

Physical inactivity

Smoking

Illicit drug use

Excessive alcohol consumption

High blood cholesterol and other lipids

Overweight and obesity

Diabetes Mellitus

Women over age 30 who smoke and take high-estrogen oral contraceptives

Signs and Symptoms of Stroke

Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body